Chris's wife here. I actually got a 70% job, driving 72 miles one way, in November 2007, not September. They did increase it to 85% with the guarantee of 100% in 09-10. But I am willing to pay horrendous gas prices in order to get the experience I need to get a job closer to home. I think your field is one of the issues. There are a lot of Social Studies teachers/wannabe teachers in Wisconsin. I did graduate in December 2005 from Viterbo in La Crosse and there were the 2nd most in Education majors (following elementary ed). I am a Business Ed teacher. I was the only graduate that December and only one other Business Ed graduate in the spring. Then not another for two years. My problem was there weren't a ton of openings and where there were openings they were looking for "seasoned" teachers. Not just someone with some experience, they wanted someone with several years of experience. I subbed for 2 years and typically I was subbing at least 3 days a week. I could have easily put in 5 days a week, but figured I would do 3-4 and spend the remaining times checking out ads and networking with others who were actually teaching in the area. I was almost making as much subbing as I did this past school year with the contract. And if you can get to where you are subbing for the same teachers over and over, they will make a great reference for you when you are applying for permanent positions. I do agree with what Chris said. If you get a shot at a job, even at 50%, take it. The experience can't hurt and schools will look at your resume and see you are dedicated to the teaching profession and want you to at least interview. For me I am not willing or able to relocate, so the jobs are limited. I don't believe you need to move out of the state to work, however if you are close to the state lines around Wisconsin, it wouldn't hurt to check into applying for a license for that state. If I hadn't found the job in November, I would have applied for a Minnesota license this year to be eligible to teach there as well. If you are willing to move anywhere in the state, that is a plus for you - especially as the school year draws closer. Sometimes it is easier to get interviewed and hired when they are down to the wire. Someone above mentioned if you have worked with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club to make sure to mention that. They are absolutely correct, but you were probably told that in your Education classes. If you aren't able to get a position by the time school starts, apply to school to substitute and do some volunteer work in the organizations - they are always looking for tutors! Good luck!!